This edition was prepared by Barry Johnston — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Gloucester
Staff Notation • Sacred
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2 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
SATB · Barry Johnston
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Gloucester by William Billings — Lyrics
Hymn LXVIII. Who was delivered for our offenses, and was raised again for our justification, Rom. iv. 25.
Jesus, Thy name we praise!
To Thee our songs we raise:
Hail! holy Lamb;
Thou hast redeem'd us,
Greatly esteem'd us,
Witness thy Sacrifice, Torment and Shame.
When we were lost in sin,
Unholy and unclean,
Unmeet for God:
Wondrous redemption!
Glorious exemption,
Now, and forever, from Hell, by Thy blood!
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About Gloucester
William Billings sets a hymn text that reflects on Christ's redemptive sacrifice and resurrection. The words explore the profound theological implications of Jesus' incarnation, his taking on of human sin and suffering, and the justification offered through his atonement. The setting is for SATB choir and is sung in English. The text, drawn from Romans, speaks of being 'delivered for our offenses, and was raised again for our justification.' It highlights the transformation from a state of sin and unholiness to one of redemption and glorification, emphasizing the power of Christ's blood to liberate humanity from spiritual bondage and the torments of hell. The composer's treatment of this devotional theme, common in sacred music, invites contemplation on the core tenets of Christian belief.
